Microplastics: A Growing Concern for Our Children’s Health
In recent years, microplastics in our environment have raised significant concerns among
environmentalists and health professionals alike. Defined as plastic particles less than five
millimeters in size, microplastics have infiltrated our ecosystems, notably our oceans, and have
consequently entered the food supply. According to the Ocean Conservancy, this increasing
omnipresence of microplastics poses serious health risks, particularly to children. This article
delves into just a few of the ways in which microplastics affect children’s health, urging a critical
look at how these contaminants impact the well-being of the most vulnerable among us.
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are small plastic bits resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic objects, as well
as microbeads found in skin scrub products and synthetic fibers from our clothing. These
particles have become ubiquitous, found in oceans, rivers, soil, and even the air we breathe.
They make their way into our food supply and bodies through obvious (ex. a discorded plastic
bottle breaking down through weathering and destructive contact with the environment) and not-
so-obvious pathways (ex. dusty air-borne fibers from your favorite polyester carpet). Mistaking
the microplastics for food, fish, and birds, ingest them and crops that absorb them from
contaminated soil and water. Seafood, which many families rely on for nutrition, is a significant
source of dietary microplastics. Filter-feeding organisms such as mussels and oysters, along
with larger fish species, often consume these particles, which then make their way up the food
chain to human consumers.
Some other examples of microplastics that we contribute to the environment without
even thinking about it are:
Paints and finishes (chips, solids, and liquids, scraped and dumped from home, art, commercial, and industrial sources)
Acrylic and gel nails and polishes (think of all those nail art studios)
Glitter (Christmas, Easter, Halloween, birthdays….)
Chewing gum (yes, sadly “gum base” is plastic…so is it better to spit it out or swallow it?)
Hair and tooth brush bristles (imagine every toothbrush the you’ve ever had is still breaking
down in the environment)
Clothing (No, not my favorite polyester sweater!?!)
Dog and cat toys (yes, Max’s preferred chew toy….wait, is he eating microplastics too???)
All this can flow freely into our water and food supply.
Fish and sea animals are not the only ones awash in microplastics. According to the Ocean
Conservancy, microplastics have been detected in a wide range of food items, including almost
all animal proteins, salt, honey, water, and anything made from those products (even beer).
When we consume these foods, we inadvertently ingest these tiny particles. While the full extent
of their impact on human health is still being researched, preliminary findings are concerning,
especially for our youngest and most vulnerable population: our children.
The Impact on Children’s Health
Anyone paying attention would tell you that plastic is not food. The human body can’t use plastic
or its chemical constituents. They certainly don’t provide any nutrients, support health, or
healing, or contribute to a child’s growth and development. But what are some of the issues we
see in children who eat plastics? (I literally can’t believe I just asked that question, but let’s go
with it.)
Children are particularly susceptible to the dangers of microplastics due to several factors:
Developmental Sensitivity: Children’s bodies are still developing, making them more vulnerable
to toxins. Their organs and immune systems are not fully matured, which can exacerbate the
effects of harmful substances.
Higher Exposure Relative to Body Weight: Children consume more food and water per unit of
body weight than adults. This means they are likely to ingest more microplastics relative to their
size, increasing their exposure to potential toxins.
Immature Detoxification Systems: The systems in place to detoxify and excrete harmful
substances are not fully developed in children. This can lead to a higher accumulation of
microplastics and their associated chemicals in their bodies.
To be clear, no randomized, controlled, double-blind studies have been done on the impact of
plastic-consumption on the human organism, especially on children, because such studies
would be inhumane and illegal. Therefore, since the precise effects are largely unknown and
unquantified, it is best to err on the side of caution and assume plastics are not food. Period. No
need to wonder if we can safely eat them. However, for those insatiably curious souls, here are
few plastic consumption consequences to consider:
- Gastrointestinal Distress and Nutrient Malabsorption:
Children’s digestive systems are particularly sensitive. Ingesting microplastics can cause
physical damage to the gastrointestinal tract, leading to inflammation and discomfort. These
particles may also interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients. Given that children are in
critical stages of growth and development, any hindrance to nutrient uptake can have far-
reaching consequences, impacting everything from physical growth to cognitive development. - Chemical Exposure:
Microplastics are not merely inert particles; they often carry harmful chemicals such as
phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), and heavy metals. These substances are known endocrine
disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone systems. For children, whose bodies and
endocrine systems are still developing, exposure to such chemicals can lead to a host of issues
including developmental delays, behavioral disorders, and increased susceptibility to chronic
diseases later in life. - Immune System Disruption:
Emerging research suggests that microplastics can provoke an immune response. When these
particles are ingested, the body may recognize them as foreign invaders, triggering
inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a concern as it can weaken the immune system over
time, making children more susceptible to infections and illnesses. - Respiratory Issues:
Microplastics are not only ingested through food but can also be inhaled in the for of microfibers
and dust. Inhaled microplastics pose a risk to respiratory health, potentially leading to issues
such as asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions. Given the rising rates of childhood
asthma, the presence of airborne microplastics adds another layer of concern for parents and
health professionals.
Microplastics carry a cocktail of chemicals that pose significant health risks. (Back to plastics
are not food.)
- Heavy Metal Contamination: Microplastics can absorb and concentrate heavy metals from the
environment. When ingested, these metals can contribute to a variety of health problems,
including cognitive impairments and developmental delays. - Immune System Disruption: Emerging research suggests that microplastics can affect the
immune system. In children, whose immune systems are still developing, this could lead to
increased susceptibility to infections and autoimmune diseases.
Mitigation and Advocacy
Understanding the impact of microplastics on health, particularly on children, underscores the
urgency of mitigating exposure and advocating for stronger environmental protections. Here are
some steps parents and communities can take:
Choose Fresh, Whole Foods: Opt for fresh, unprocessed and minimally processed foods that
are less likely to contain microplastics. This aligns with plant-based nutrition principles and
reduces the risk of ingesting contaminants.
Reduce Plastic Use: As far as possible, minimize/stop the use of plastics. Opt for reusable
products made from natural fibers, glass, ceramics, wood or stainless steel. This reduces the
overall plastic burden on the environment.
Filter Your Water: Use water filters that can remove microplastics and other impurities from tap
water. Encourage children to drink filtered water instead of bottled water, which often contains
microplastics.
Support Policies and Organizations that Support a Clean environment: Advocate for policies
aimed at reducing plastic production and pollution. Supporting these kinds of organizations can
amplify efforts to combat microplastic pollution.
Choose Safer Foods avoiding plastic bags and packaging: Incorporate more plant-based
options which you can buy without any packaging at all. We recommend avoid eating seafood
and other animal products entirely. However, if you must consume animal products, choose
sources which generally have lower exposure to microplastics and select those known for lower
contamination levels.
Educate and Raise Awareness: Inform others, and teach children about the importance of
reducing plastic use and proper recycling. Model making environmentally conscious choices
that contribute to a healthier planet. A well educated community can lead to collective action
and greater impact.
As we continue to uncover the hidden threats in our food supply, it’s crucial to stay informed and proactive. Microplastics present a significant health risk, particularly to our children, who are the most vulnerable among us. By making informed choices and advocating for a cleaner environment, we can help protect their health and ensure a safer future. Stay vigilant, stay educated, and continue to champion a plant-based lifestyle for the well-being of all.
For more information on the effects of microplastics and ways to combat their proliferation, visit the Ocean Conservancy website.
